Immunoglobulin production

Immunoglobulin production refers to the biological process by which B lymphocytes synthesize antibodies in response to antigenic stimulation. This involves several steps including V(D)J recombination during B cell development for antigen specificity, followed by class-switch recombination upon activation. The resulting antibodies serve multiple roles in immunity such as neutralizing pathogens, activating complement pathways, opsonizing microbes for phagocytosis, agglutinating antigens, and mediating antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. The type of immunoglobulin produced depends on signals received from helper T cells and cytokines. Defects in this process lead to primary or secondary immunodeficiencies with increased infection risk; conversely, dysregulated antibody responses contribute to autoimmunity.

Other names

Antibody productionIg productionImmunoglobulin synthesis